Embrace the Cloudy Days With These Creative Activities Around Town

While spring in Orange County is undeniably the start of warmer, sunnier and brighter days, there is no denying that the earlier months of the season can bring some unexpected, last-minute, rain, gloom and chills. And while the rain may be great for OC’s rolling hills and vibrant flora, it can certainly be a bummer to those looking to hit the beach, enjoy a picnic or spend time soaking up the sun. Luckily, even when the May Gray and June Gloom roll in, there is still tons of fun to be had. We’re sharing 10 of our favorite ideas for how to beat May Gray and June Gloom in Orange County this spring!

 

1 | Play Some Games at Mission Control

Looking for a fun, nostalgic and vibrant place to visit when the weather isn’t quite beach-quality? Look no further than Mission Control in Santa Ana. This one-of-a-kind arcade features an impressive array of delicious eats, quality craft beers and cocktails along with an awesome lineup of fun, vintage arcade games that are sure to bring out anyone’s inner child. Sip on a refreshing local IPA while taking down your buddy’s pinball high score or split an appetizer before challenging your party to some foosball and air hockey. And with weekly events, live music and DJs, Mission Control is sure to help cure that June Gloom.

 

2 | Explore the Anaheim Packing District and Let Your Inner Foodie Shine

Comprised of four historic landmarks and one of the largest farmers markets in all of Southern California, the Anaheim Packing District is an iconic staple of the OC community. Featuring a massive dining hall with dozens of local vendors, pop-ups and restaurants—as well as a brewery and their ever-popular Farmer’s Park—the Anaheim Packing District is a foodie’s paradise. So whether you’re looking to grab a quick bite or spend the day exploring this slice of California history, the Anaheim Packing District is a perfect place to beat a gloomy day. 

 

3 | Get a Sun-less Tan at Sugared + Bronzed

Just because the sun isn’t out doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to a gorgeous self-tan in preparation for beach season. At Sugared + Bronzed, customers can experience one-of-a-kind beautification and spa treatments while knowing they’re in the hands of experienced and caring professionals. Enjoy premium services like their renowned sunless tans and fine-tuned sugar hair removal treatments—all designed to help you feel confident and ready for any occasion. So whether you’ve got a special event on the horizon or simply want to look and feel your very best, Sugared + Bronzed has you covered from head to toe.

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4 | Embrace Self-Care With a Trip to Facial Lounge or Jack Henry

In the spirit of self-care and treating yourself in the midst of gloomy weather, this list would be remiss without mentioning the wonderful skincare and haircare experts at Facial Lounge and Jack Henry. These wellness studios pride themselves on providing the very best services and treatments in the industry. Guests can experience a serene and luxurious environment while receiving one of the highest-quality facials or haircuts and stylings available.  

 

5 | Explore the OC Museum of Art

It is often said that art and emotion go hand in hand, so what better way to break out of a bad-weather funk than by indulging in the OC art scene. Your crew (or we even love this idea for a solo date!) should head to the OC Museum of Art in Costa Mesa. For over two decades, this one-of-a-kind museum, located on the beautiful Segerstrom Center for the Arts campus, has displayed stunning works encompassing everything from classic pieces to groundbreaking modern exhibits. Recently renovated and reopened, head on down to OCMA for an afternoon of awe and inspiration.

 

6 | See a Show at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Whether you’re a staunch fan of live theater or looking to explore one of the planet’s most treasured mediums, seeing a show at the Segerstrom Center is a must. With an incredible calendar of productions, including musicals like “Hairspray” and “Chicago,” and performances by some of the best symphonies and orchestras in the area, there is something for everyone to enjoy this spring. Be sure to also check out some of the amazing exhibits and galleries that populate this campus as well—they are sure to impress.

 

7 | Take a pottery class at Costa Mesa Ceramics Studio

Speaking of art, for those looking to get their hands dirty and flex their creative muscles, taking a pottery class at Costa Mesa Ceramics Studio is a great way to avoid the clouds and enjoy an afternoon of sculpting, shaping and creating. Learn how to make beautiful, handcrafted ceramics alongside a team of expert teachers to help you grow and explore one of the most timeless crafts in human history. Be sure to sign up early since classes tend to fill up quickly!

 

8 | Enjoy a Latte at Daydream Surf Shop

Nothing says SoCal quite like a tandem cafe and surf shop, and at Daydream, they have mastered that coastal-cool balance. Boasting a wonderful collection of apparel while also serving up some of the best lattes in the area, browsing through Daydream’s shop is a perfect way to escape the gray and also help you knock out some early summer shopping. Their minimalist pieces are made with quality and precision, allowing for maximum comfort and versatility. This, combined with their quaint, bungalow-style coffee shop, allows them to execute their mission of providing “good vibes” to perfection.

 

9 | Visit The Lost Inferno OC Speakeasy 

Whether you are an avid fan or a first-timer, speakeasies are nothing short of magical. Secret entrances, wild decor and delicious craft cocktails combine to create a lounge experience unlike any other, and San Clemente’s The Lost Inferno is no exception. Boasting floor-to-ceiling pirate decor, this speakeasy goes all out in an effort to help visitors escape to a land of sunken treasure, hidden riches and, of course, barrels of the finest rum and ale. Book a reservation and come be one of the first to discover this hidden gem in the heart of downtown San Clemente.

 

10 | Escape to the Desert (Where There’s Actually Sun!)

Of course, if you’ve tried everything else on this list, there is perhaps no better way to escape May Gray than to simply kiss it goodbye and make the trek out to Palm Desert. Warm and sunny almost year-round, the desert is home to a whole county’s worth of world-class resorts, golf courses, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues, making it a popular vacation spot for many Orange County residents. Enjoy lavish, poolside living or adventure around on one of thousands of incredible hiking trails in this one-of-a-kind area.